NEWS: Leon Sidelined With Concussion At RACE SuperSeries Finale, Loses Out on Chance to Retain Number 1 Plate.

Wednesday, September 27, 2017

The final race weekend of the 2017 racing season was disappointing for the Royal Distributing Superbike Team. Rider, Michael Leon, went into the final double header event of the 2017 calendar with the points lead in both the RACE Pro Superbike and Open Sprint Championships. Unfortunately, a crash in the first final of the weekend, on Saturday morning, forced Michael to retire from action for the weekend with a concussion. As a result, he conceded the championship battles to rivals Eli Daccache and Jeff Williams.

“On the second lap of the Open Sprint race I passed Jeff to take the lead, heading into corner two. He counter-attacked and came past on the inside of me between corner two and three. We believe that my handle bar or brake protector snagged Jeff’s boot while we were side by side and set off the crash. Luckily, he didn’t go down as well, although it tore a hole in his left boot. I considered it a racing incident. The data logger shows that I was traveling at over 110 km/h when I hit the ground and that the bike and I slid and tumbled for over 335 feet before coming to a stop outside of corner 3. I can’t thank Bell Helmets and Speed and Strength leathers enough for providing the top gear that prevented me from getting seriously injured. I was knocked out for a bit but other than that, I only sustained a few bumps and bruises. Physically, I would have been able to race on Sunday, but was advised not to, due to the risk of complications should I have another crash and concussion so soon after. I want to thank Doc Walker for his advice and looking out for all of us riders. Thanks to the corner workers for tending to me. Also huge thanks to my family, my awesome crew and all our sponsors for such an amazing season. Too bad it didn’t end with another championship win for me, but that’s why we line up and race, because anything can happen.” Commented Michael.

After a short period of rest, the team will begin to plan and prepare for 2018.